Harrison gives back to Kent State

James Harrison is someone who has never forgotten where he came from and that is why the Steelers Pro Bowl linebacker recently made a $100,000 donation to his former school, Kent State University.

“We are extremely grateful to James for his commitment to Kent State and the football program,” said Director of Athletics Joel Nielsen. “He is one of the most recognizable figures in the NFL today and his support is sure to have a lasting effect on our student-athletes now and in the future.”

Harrison said the idea of doing the donation has been in the works for the last year and he hopes it will make an impact on the football program.

“I had a good time at Kent,” said Harrison. “I wanted to do something to give something back to the school and to get a better college recruiting class than they’re used to and be more competitive in the MAC. I felt like this was something that would help.”

The donation, which was approved by Kent State’s Board of Trustees on Wednesday, goes to the Football Enhancement Fund and will be used to help with scholarships and upgrading the football facilities.

The school is also naming their Field House weight room the James Harrison Strength & Conditioning Center in recognition of his donation and the impact he has had on the University.

“This gift is indicative of the legacy James wants to leave at Kent State and of the impact Kent State has had on James and his family,” said Matt Geis, Kent State’s Executive Director for Athletic Advancement.